Maruti Suzuki offers mild-hybrid setups in the mass segments including Ciaz and Brezza. It adds a small electrical component usually as a starter generator motor to enhance the fuel efficiency. However, there is no true electric propulsion. As per new reports, Honda is planning to bridge this gap with a mass car with hybrid technology in the second quarter of 2022 - City.
Honda’s i-MMD eHEV hybrid powertrain uses electric motors to run City in pure EV mode. Honda City Hybrid is powered with a 1.5-litre petrol engine that produces 98PS/127Nm. The engine powers the car at higher speeds where it is more energy-efficient than the electric motor.
Its electric motor makes 109PS and 253Nm, making it good for city use with zippy acceleration. However, Honda will offer only CVT automatic transmission with the hybrid setup.
Honda City Hybrid will have three driving modes including hybrid, pure EV, and engine-only. There no official figures for the electric range. However, Thailand-spec Honda City returns around 27.78kmpl in ideal conditions.
Standard Honda City’s 1.5-litre diesel-manual has an ARAI-claimed figure of 24.1kmpl and petrol-manual offers a claimed efficiency of 17.8kmpl.
Expected pricing
Fifth-gen Honda City is currently available from Rs 11.23 lakh to Rs 15.18 lakh (ex-showroom, Delhi). Honda City Hybrid is expected to be offered in a single fully loaded variant. It could come at a price tag of around Rs 17.5 lakh (ex-showroom).
